The Civil Defence Officers Wives Association (CDOWA), FCT Chapter, has launched a skill acquisition and empowerment programme for its members, widows of fallen heroes, and other female officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), FCT Command.

The event, held at the NSCDC FCT command headquarters, Abuja, on April 25, 2025 is aimed at empowering women through practical, income-generating skills and social transformation.

The initiative, themed “Transforming lives and empowering women,” featured training in liquid soap making, cream production, detergent and disinfectant (Dettol) production, alongside lectures on branding, packaging, market access, and funding opportunities.

Speaking at the event, Commandant of the NSCDC FCT Command, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, hailed the programme as a testament to the Command’s vision of reform and rejuvenation.

He applauded the leadership of his wife, Mrs. Bolanle Olayinka Odumosu, Chairperson of CDOWA FCT Chapter, for her vision and commitment.

“To my amiable wife, Mrs. Bolanle Olayinka Odumosu, congratulations on this wonderful achievement, and thank you for having women at heart,” Odumosu said adding that “Behind every successful man is not just an ordinary woman, but a beautiful and prayerful woman.”

While highlighting the objectives of his administration since assuming office, the Commandant said, “I had an agenda to rebrand, rebuild, rejuvenate, and restructure the FCT Command. This programme is proof that we are achieving those goals.”

Odumosu emphasized the need for economic independence among women, especially the widows of fallen officers.

“When a breadwinner is no more, life becomes difficult. This initiative was birthed to alleviate suffering, support and empower them. This is the second edition, and it will be sustained. When you build a woman, you are building a nation.”

He added that last year’s free medical outreach for CDOWA members was part of broader welfare efforts, “because the stress our women face is enormous, and many don’t have time to take care of their health.”

Mrs. Bolanle Olayinka Odumosu, Who is the Chairperson of CDOWA, described the programme as more than a training, it’s “a movement of empowermenShe further said, “This is the first of its kind in the FCT Command. As wives of officers, we understand the challenges of this noble profession. Our spouses put their lives on the line for our safety, and we also have a role to play in supporting our families,” she said

The CDOWA Chairperson further highlighted the focus of the programme on equipping women with practical skills for economic independence.

“Most especially, the wives of our fallen heroes—we want them to be financially independent, to take care of their children and to stand proud in society,” she said.

According to her, every participant would not only be trained but also go home with a starter pack containing materials to produce up to 50 liters of liquid soap. “This is your time to learn, to create, and to build something meaningful,” she urged the women.

She also expressed gratitude to Hajia Aishat Audi, National President of CDOWA, for her continued support, and to her husband, Commandant Olusola Odumosu, “the trailblazer, the pacesetting Commandant,” for always standing by CDOWA.

The event also received backing from the FCT administration, had in attendance the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi

In her goodwill message, Benjamins-Laniyi, applauded CDOWA’s initiative and reaffirmed the Secretariat’s commitment to women’s empowerment.

“This initiative aligns perfectly with our office’s mandate,” she said, and cited previous collaborations with the NSCDC including the Gender and Human Security Summit, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Boot Camps, and training of Gender Desk Officers.

She said, “CDOWA’s programme embodies the spirit of sisterhood, empowerment, and community building.”

Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi commended the role of Gender Desk Officer, Samuel Precious Ozunma, and the National Head of the Gender Unit, Kemi Ajet, for their advocacy for women’s safety and welfare.

“I look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative,” added.

In support, 20 widows of fallen NSCDC officers and struggling female staff, were empowered with a bag containing chemical contents to produce 50 liters of liquid soap each.

This, according to CDOWA leadership, is a step toward reducing hardship and creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods.